The civilian death toll in Sudan has tripled, with at least 275 fatalities reported between January 31 and February 5, according to OHCHR. Violence is escalating in South Kordofan and Blue Nile, threatening humanitarian efforts and leading to a dire shortage of resources. Aid workers face threats and have been targeted due to false accusations. OHCHR emphasizes the need for all parties to protect civilians and humanitarian staff.
The civilian death toll in Sudan has sharply increased, with the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reporting at least 275 civilians killed from January 31 to February 5. This figure indicates a threefold rise compared to the previous week’s death count of 89. South Kordofan and Blue Nile states are particularly affected, facing a humanitarian disaster as violence escalates.
Hostilities in Sudan have intensified recently, marked by ongoing artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone attacks that have ravaged civilian areas, especially in Khartoum and Darfur. Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan, alone has reported nearly 80 civilian deaths, with disturbing reports of women and children being used as human shields. In the Blue Nile region, the potential for further violence is increasing due to mass mobilization efforts for conflict.
The OHCHR has highlighted the increasing threats faced by humanitarian workers. Some have been wrongly accused of collaborating with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), leading to intimidation and violence against them. Since the conflict’s escalation in April 2023, 57 members of a local volunteer network have lost their lives, compounding the crisis amid shortages of medical supplies and growing food insecurity in South Kordofan.
In response to this dire situation, the OHCHR has called on all conflict parties to cease indiscriminate attacks and protect civilians, including humanitarian workers and human rights defenders. “The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces must respect their international law obligations and take concrete steps to protect civilians from harm,” stated Seif Magango, OHCHR spokesperson.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has significantly deteriorated, particularly following the escalation of hostilities that began in April 2023. This has resulted in a rapidly rising death toll among civilians, prompting urgent attention from international bodies like the OHCHR. With the humanitarian crisis deepening in regions such as South Kordofan and Blue Nile, critical shortages of food and medical supplies are exacerbating the situation, highlighting the severe implications of the conflict on targeted populations and aid workers.
The alarming increase in civilian casualties in Sudan, alongside threats to humanitarian workers, underscores the urgent need for protective measures and adherence to international law by all involved parties. The humanitarian crisis requires immediate attention to alleviate the suffering of affected populations and ensure the safety of those providing aid amid rising violence.
Original Source: news.un.org
